Dr. Michael Kaufman

Michael Kaufman, Ph.D., is an acclaimed writer and speaker with a distinguished background in fiction and non-fiction. His work centers on engaging men and boys to promote gender equality and to transform attitudes and behaviors positively. Over the last four decades, he has collaborated with the United Nations, various governments, non-governmental organizations, corporations, trade unions, and universities, reaching over fifty countries.

Kaufman's non-fiction includes "The Time Has Come. Why Men Must Join the Gender Equality Revolution," among eight other books on gender issues, and democracy and developmental studies. His fiction works include the award-winning "The Possibility of Dreaming on a Night Without Stars," "The Afghan Vampires Book Club," and the Jen Lu mystery series with titles "The Last Exit" and "The Last Resort." He has recently co-authored the "State of the World's Fathers" report, reflecting his ongoing commitment to gender equality discussions globally.

A co-founder of the White Ribbon Campaign, the world's most extensive initiative of men working to end violence against women, Kaufman also serves as a Senior Fellow at Instituto Promundo, emphasizing his role in leadership and advocacy in gender equality. He has been a keynote speaker at significant events like the UN Global Compact conference and the Hangzhou government’s and UN Women’s conference on gender equality and corporate social responsibility. Recognized for his contributions to gender equality, Kaufman was awarded Canada's Meritorious Service Cross. His extensive contributions have also led him to advise on sexual harassment training programs used by the United Nations. Based in Toronto, Canada, Kaufman continues to impart his expertise through speaking engagements, panel discussions, and educational initiatives worldwide.